Both were first year biomedical sciences students. Inquests have yet to take place in both cases, which are being treated as unexplained, although no third party involvement is suspected.

University representatives have stressed that it would be inappropriate to jump to conclusions as to the cause of the deaths until investigations have been completed.

However it has taken steps to increase the availability of counselling for students as well as producing a new set of health and wellbeing guidelines aimed at helping staff target any problems early.

Peer support

Dr David Ashton, vice-president and registrar the university, said: “The well-being of our students is of paramount importance and we have a number of initiatives in place to provide support and advice throughout their time here.

“Every new student in our halls of residence is allocated a student mentor who visits every week to provide peer support, information and help.

“These student mentors are experienced final year or postgraduate students who have experienced student life at Surrey and are able to utilise their training and experience to help others.

“The service works closely with the hall of residence wardens, who are senior members of university staff, resident in halls, responsible for the pastoral wellbeing of students.

“The university also runs a wellbeing service which offers students a range of services including counselling, advice and workshops.

“Following the tragic deaths of two of our students at the end of last year, we have increased the number of counselling sessions available to students. We have also produced a new set of health and wellbeing guidelines to help staff manage any emerging concerns.

“The university also has a 24 hour security team on hand to assist with any safety issues or concerns on campus.”

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She has been editorial director of the online and print titles in Surrey and north-east Hampshire since 2007. Marnie previously worked at the BBC as a producer for 5 Live, having moved to national radio from BBC Sussex and Surrey.